What causes axillary osmidrosis in women?
Dec 29, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Poor personal hygiene: According to reliable research, poor personal hygiene is a significant factor in the development of underarm odor. Unhygienic living habits can increase bacterial growth on the body and lead to excessive sweating, resulting in the interaction between sweat and bacteria that causes underarm odor. When the environmental temperature rises or when patients feel anxious, they may experience abnormally excessive sweating under the arms.
Most of us have some understanding of axillary osmidrosis (underarm odor). In particular, we often encounter female friends around us who suffer from this condition. To prevent body odor, they may use strong perfumes or wear multiple layers of clothing even during hot summer months. So, what causes women to develop underarm odor? Let's take a closer look.
What Causes Underarm Odor in Women?
1. Poor personal hygiene: Reliable studies indicate that poor personal hygiene is a major contributing factor to the development of underarm odor. Unhygienic living habits can increase bacterial growth on the skin and lead to excessive sweating, which in turn allows bacteria to break down sweat and produce unpleasant odors in the armpits.
2. Psychological and environmental factors: Environmental heat or emotional stress can also trigger excessive sweating in individuals with bromhidrosis (body odor), leading to unpleasant smells. Excessive sweating can stain clothes yellow and leave persistent odors that are difficult to remove. Symptoms of axillary osmidrosis are typically most pronounced during puberty.
3. Role of sweat glands: Axillary odor commonly occurs in areas such as the palms and regions where skin rubs together. Normally, eccrine sweat is colorless and odorless, but when produced in excess, it can be broken down by bacteria on the skin’s surface, releasing fatty acids and producing a distinct foul smell. Other substances, such as garlic or arsenic compounds, can also be excreted through sweat glands and contribute to body odor. This mechanism is one of the more common causes of underarm odor.
Women who experience underarm odor need not worry excessively. They should seek medical advice promptly and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor’s guidance.
